Mobile Terminal Device Having Camera System

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a camera system which is usable with a mobile terminal. The camera system includes a lens module and at least one mechanism for changing optical properties by interacting with the lens module. The camera system may be built into the mobile terminal or attached thereto as an external module

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/987,849 filed Nov. 16, 2001 and titled “MobileTerminal Device Having Camera System,” the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated herein by reference for any and all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a device, method and system forenhancing optical properties of a camera system of a mobile terminaldevice. Particularly, the invention relates to a device, method andsystem for enhancing optics of a mobile terminal device having avariable camera system employing a cover that integrates variablelenses.

2. Description of the Prior Art

The second generation mobile phone systems, such as GSM, havesignificantly increased over the last years. The penetration of mobilephones exceeds 80% in countries with advanced wireless markets. Thesecond generation mobile communication systems are optimized for voicetraffic. The coming third generation mobile communication system enablesnot only the intermediate standards of the second generation mobilecommunication system but also the handling of high data rate servicesand will provide for voice traffic as an additional service. Wirelesscommunication will be extended to further services which are limited bythe low data rate of the second generation mobile communication systems.

One of the services requiring high data rates will be the possibility totransmit and receive high quality images and videos. The capability ofhigh data rates allows providing this service within acceptabletransmission duration and acceptable costs.

Therefore, coming mobile phones will include digital cameras to takepictures which may be transmitted to other participants of the mobilecommunication system, like friends or colleagues or suitable recipientsconnected in any way to the mobile communication system. For example, abuilt-in digital camera will provide the possibility to operate videotelephony. The number of applications using built-in digital cameras andalso camera modules plugged into a mobile phone are numerous and thepossibility of transmitting pictures will improve the performance ofcommunication in an advantageous way. The success of messages accordingto the short message service (SMS) standard which enables thetransmission of simple low resolution pictures may give a hint to thecoming success of video and picture transmission with high resolution.

A digital camera built within a mobile phone or provided as an externaldigital camera module plugged into a mobile phone will fulfil itsfunction although several restrictions have to be imposed on the digitalcameras, such as size, weight, power consumption, and the like. Smallmobile sized phones of low weight fulfil the demands of the market andthe consumer. Accordingly, additional built-in equipment or plugged-onequipment will have to fulfil the same demands to be acceptable by theusers.

Preferably, CMOS sensors are used as detector system for digitalcameras. The size of charged coupled devices (CCD) allows designingdigital cameras of small size and low weight. According to size andweight of mobile devices, the optics of the digital camera system haveto be subject to the same restrictions. That means that advanced opticsknown from prior stand-alone digital cameras can not be used for digitalcameras built into mobile terminals. Size and weight of advanced opticswill exceed the restrictions. Therefore, the digital cameras areequipped with fixed focus imaging optics which limits the distance forsharp imaging to a imaging distance resulting from the design of thefixed focus imaging optics. Often the imaging is limited from about 50cm to infinity. Moreover the (horizontal as well as also vertical) fieldof view is fixed to a pre-defined value.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Nevertheless, the need of enhanced optics for digital cameras for mobileterminals, especially mobile phones, enabling taking of pictures atshort distances or pictures of different fields of view will arise forthe user of the camera system and will be solved by the presentinvention.

The present invention provides a device, a system and a method toovercome the limitations of a fixed focus camera system, especially ofcamera systems built into mobile phones.

The invention provides a mobile terminal device, particularly a mobilephone, equipped with a camera system comprising a lens module forimaging, and a mechanism for changing optical properties of the lensmodule to adapt the optical properties of the whole camera system to auser's requirements.

Aspects of the invention relate to a part of a housing, such as front orback cover or part of the respective covers, with integrated mechanismfor changing the optical properties of a lens module, wherein the lensmodule operates a camera system of a camera system of a mobile terminaldevice. In certain embodiments, the mechanism for changing the opticalproperties may comprise a lens, objective comprising several lenses, atleast one filter, a diffractive optical element, and combinationsthereof.

The invention is also a mechanism for changing optical properties of acamera system comprising a lens module and operated as a camera systemof a mobile terminal device wherein the mechanism for changing opticalproperties is integrated into a part of a housing.

The invention is also a method for changing the optical properties of acamera system of a mobile terminal device, wherein optical properties ofa lens module of the camera system are changed by using a mechanism forchanging optical properties. The mechanism for changing opticalproperties is integrated into a part of a housing enclosing the camerasystem of the mobile terminal device.

The invention is also a system comprising a camera system of a mobileterminal device, a part of a housing and a mechanism for changingoptical properties of the lens module of the camera system, wherein themechanism for changing optical properties of the lens module isintegrated into a part of the housing.

Overall, the present invention provides the equipping of mobile terminaldevices with standard camera systems enabling the user thereof to takepictures. These standard camera systems fulfil the basic requirements oflow cost systems of small size and low weight with overall costefficiency according to the demand of the market segment. The standardcamera system provides a kind of standard imaging covering a major partof user's requirement for taking pictures or scenes with a camerasystem. Further requirements of the lens system of the camera will bemet by the mechanism for changing optical properties of the lens moduleof the camera. The mechanism for changing optical properties may beintegrated into the detachably connected housing or part of a housing tobe connected to the camera system in case of the user's needs. Thisoptional extension of the camera system provides the possibility toadapt the camera to the respective requirements. The extension israpidly exchangeable. Moreover, different extensions may be able toadapt to different requirements and the user may be able to decide whichsize and weight may be acceptable with respect to individualrequirements, since advanced optics may not meet the need of size andweight of a standard camera system.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a mobile terminal deviceis provided. The mobile terminal device has a camera system comprising alens module, a mechanism for changing optical properties thereof,wherein the mechanism for changing optical properties is adapted tocooperate with the lens module. The lens module operates as a standardimaging optics to reproduce images detected by a detector systemincluded in the camera system. Preferably, the camera system comprises acharged coupled device (CCD) for reproducing images which are focused bythe lens module on the CCD. Typically, the lens module may be a fixedfocus objective permanently integrated in the camera system of themobile terminal device. Conveniently, fixed focus objectives have alimited distance range for focusing images, that is from a minimaldistance up to infinity, for example 50 cm to infinity. Moreover,further properties like horizontal and vertical field of view (HFOV orVFOV, respectively) underlie the same restrictions. The mechanism forchanging optical properties of the lens module may enable modifying thelimited properties of the lens module, for example to shorter minimaldistance or varying field of view.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may beconnected detachably to mobile terminal devices or camera systems,respectively. A detachable connection may employ a different mechanismfor changing optical properties according to the current requirementsfor taking pictures. This detachable connection may be a special snap-inconnection which receives and supports the mechanism for changingoptical properties in an appropriate way. The snap-in connection mayprovide additional connections, particularly an electrical connection tothe electronics of the camera system. The electrical connection maycomprise signal connection for controlling signals and also power supplyconnection.

Conveniently, a part of a housing enclosing the camera system maycomprise the mechanism for changing optical properties. A part of ahousing may be a front cover or a back cover. Moreover, a part of thehousing may also be a part of the front cover or a part of the backcover. The mechanism for changing optical properties may be fixed to thepart of the housing but also detachably connected to the part of thehousing. The part of the housing may additionally comprise connections,particularly an electrical connection, to the electronics of the camerasystem. The electrical connection may comprise a signal connection forcontrolling signals and also power supply connection.

Additionally, the part of a housing comprising the mechanism forchanging optical properties may be detachably connected. An exchange ofdifferent mechanisms for changing optical properties may be performed byexchanging the part of the housing comprising the respective mechanismsfor changing optical properties.

Preferably, the part of a housing comprises not only a mechanism forchanging optical properties but an assembly of a plurality of mechanismsfor changing optical properties of different characteristics. Theassembly comprised by the part of the housing may be changed uponactuation in order to enable the co-operating of the differentmechanisms for changing optical properties with the lens module of thecamera system. The assembly may also comprise additional elements like asimple protecting cover for the lens module or a simple plane of glassprotecting the lens module during without modifying its opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the actuation of the assembly may be a manual actuation ora motorized actuation or any other electrically controlled actuation,for example of an assembly of variable lenses, by which at least one ofthe lenses is put into an operative position. In order to controlelectrically the mechanisms for changing optical properties additionalelectrical connections may be provided which connect the electronics ofthe camera system to the mechanism for changing optical properties.Moreover, the electrical connections may comprise a power supplyconnection for motorized functions of the mechanism for changing opticalproperties.

Additionally, the actuation may be a sliding actuation. The assembly ofthe mechanisms for changing optical properties may be arranged straightin a row for example by a row of adjacent optical lenses which may beinterchanged so that at least one of the lenses is put into an operativeposition at a time. The different mechanism for changing opticalproperties may be suitably arranged with the camera system and the lensmodule thereof by sliding the whole assembly along a correspondingsupporting guide.

Further, the actuation may be a rotating actuation with the assemblybeing arranged on a wheel. Correspondingly, the different mechanisms forchanging optical properties may be suitably arranged with the camerasystem and the lens module thereof by rotating the wheel around an axisof the wheel, for example rotating the wheel having a plurality ofcircumferentially mounted lenses in its periphery along thecircumference.

Further, it may be advantageous to connect detachably the assembly ofthe plurality of mechanism for changing optical properties. A fast andeasy exchange of the assembly may increase the possibility of usage. Incase of the arrangement of the mechanisms for changing opticalproperties onto different wheels may be provided. For example, a wheelcarrying macro and close-up lenses of different imaging ratios, or awheel carrying far-distance or telephoto lenses of differentmagnifications. The number of assemblies and the arrangement ofdifferent mechanisms for changing optical properties is not limited.

Preferably, the mechanisms for changing optical properties of the lenssystem of the camera system of the mobile terminal device may be atleast one lens. Lenses set in front of a lens module of a camera systemenable changing of optical properties of the lens module, like focuslength, field of view, magnification or minimal imaging distance. Themanufacturing of the lenses may be based on different lens materials.Common materials are polymers or different glass substrates but thematerials for the lenses is not limited to the commonly used ones.

Conveniently, at least one lens may be a macro lens. Usually, the termmacro describes an approximately 1:1 (object size to image size)reproduction of an object by an camera system on an imaging plane.Correspondingly, the magnification of the imaged object is 1 or higher.

Additionally, lenses providing a magnification of the imaged objecthigher than approximately 2 are termed as close-up lenses which meansthat the object size to image size of the object is 1:2 or smaller. Sucha lens may also be provided as a mechanism for changing opticalproperties of the lens module of the camera system.

Moreover, at least one lens may be a far-distance lens providing topossibility to image objects at a far distance.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprise awide converter or more extremely a fisheye lens.

Further preferably, at least one lens may be an electrically variablelens. For example, electrical lenses may provide the possibility tomodify their focal length by applying different voltages. Themodification of the optical properties of lenses may be preferable sincemechanical comparable solutions involving several lenses show manydisadvantages like intricate mechanics of a relative high weight.

All the aforementioned mechanisms for changing optical properties may bedesigned of single lenses but may be also designed of several lenseswherein an adapted combination of lenses provides respective opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an objective usually built-up of several lenses. Theobjective may be a zoom objective providing a selective range of thefield of view. Usually, field of view may be selected out of theprovided range of the field of view by a user operation actuatedmanually of electrically, for example by a motorized adjustment of thefield of view.

Moreover, the objective may be a telephoto objective comprising severallenses and providing telephoto photography. The telephoto objective maybe designed as a zoom telephoto objective providing telephotography atdifferent magnifications.

Additionally, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an auto-focusing objective usually built-up of severallenses. Objectives comprising several lenses to provide the desiredoptical properties require often a focusing of the imaged object ontothe image plane. The focusing may be motorized actuated or actuated by acomparable controllable mechanism. The automatic actuation of thefocusing of objective comprising several lenses may be a preferredsolution.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprisefilters. The employment of filters is well known in photography.Different filters may improve pictures taken by camera systems. Forexample, a skylight filter reduces the part of blue color of the sky onbright days and reduces the part of which is in ultraviolet (UV) lightor polarization filters may enable to reduce reflection and producebrighter colors. Also colored filters may improve pictures taken bycamera systems of produce special effects.

Preferably, the camera system is built in the mobile terminal device.The mobile terminal device and the camera system comprising the lensmodule are enclosed by the same housing. The mechanism for changingoptical properties of the camera system may be integrated in the housingof the mobile terminal device comprising the camera system. The part ofa housing may be a part of the housing of the mobile terminal deviceincluding the camera system.

Additionally, the camera system comprising the lens module may be aseparate external module which may be plugged into the mobile terminaldevice for operation of the camera system. The camera system is enclosedby its own housing. The mechanism for changing optical properties of thecamera system may be integrated into the housing of the external modulecomprising the camera system. The part of a housing may be a part of thehousing of the external module including the camera system.

Conveniently, the mobile terminal device may be a mobile phone accordingto known standards of mobile communication, such as the global systemfor mobile communication (GSM), universal mobile telecommunicationservices (UMTS), digital communication system (DCS), wideband codedivision multiple access (WCDMA), IS-136 (mainly US wirelesscommunication standard), IS-95 (mainly US wireless communicationstandard) or the like.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a part of a housingcomprising a mechanism for changing optical properties is provided. Themeans for changing optical properties is adapted to cooperate with alens module of a camera system. A mobile terminal device comprises thecamera system. The lens module operates as a standard imaging optics ofthe camera system. Preferably, the camera system may be a digital camerasystem comprising a CCD chip for detecting the images. The lens modulefocuses the images on the CCD chip. Typically, the lens module may be afixed focus objective permanently integrated in the camera system whichis comprised by the mobile terminal device. Conveniently, fixed focusobjectives have a limited distance range for focusing images, that isfrom a minimal distance up to infinity, for example from 50 cm toinfinity. Moreover, further properties like horizontal and verticalfield of view (HFOV or VFOV, respectively) underlie the samerestrictions. The mechanism for changing optical properties of the lensmodule may be able to modify the limited properties of the lens module,for example to shorter minimal distance or varying field of view.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may beconnected detachably to mobile terminal device or camera system,respectively. A detachable connection may allow employment of differentmechanisms for changing optical properties according to the currentrequirements for taking pictures. This detachable connection may be aspecial snap-in connection which receives and support the mechanism forchanging optical properties in an appropriate way. The snap-inconnection may provide additional connections, particularly anelectrical connection to the electronics of the camera system. Theelectrical connection may comprise signal connection for controllingsignals and also power supply connection.

Additionally, the part of a housing comprising the mechanism forchanging optical properties may be detachably connected. An exchange ofdifferent mechanisms for changing optical properties may be performed byexchanging the part of the housing comprising the respective mechanismfor changing optical properties. The part of the housing mayadditionally comprise connections, particularly an electrical connectionto the electronics of the camera system. The electrical connection maycomprise a signal connection for controlling signals and also a powersupply connection.

Preferably, the part of a housing comprises not only a mechanism forchanging optical properties but an assembly of a plurality of mechanismsfor changing optical properties of different characteristics. Theassembly comprised by the part of the housing may be changed uponactuation in order to enable the co-operating of the differentmechanisms for changing optical properties with the lens module of thecamera system. The assembly may also comprise additional elements like asimple protecting cover for the lens module or a simple plane of glassprotecting the lens module during without modifying its opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the actuation of the assembly may be a manual actuation ora motorized actuation or any other electrically controlled actuation. Inorder to control electrically the mechanism for changing opticalproperties, additional electrical connections may be provided whichconnect the electronics of the camera system to the mechanism forchanging optical properties. Moreover, the electrical connections maycomprise a power supply connection for motorized functions of themechanism for changing optical properties.

Additionally, the actuation may be a sliding actuation. The assembly ofmechanism for changing optical properties may be arranged straight in arow. The different mechanisms for changing optical properties may besuitably arranged with the camera system and the lens module thereof bysliding the whole assembly along a corresponding supporting guide.

Further, the actuation may be a rotating actuation with the assemblyarranged on a wheel. Correspondingly, the different mechanism forchanging optical properties may be suitably arranged with the camerasystem and the lens module thereof by rotating the wheel around an axisof the wheel.

Further, it may be advantageous to connect detachably the assembly ofthe plurality of mechanisms for changing optical properties. A fast andeasy exchange of the assembly may increase the possibility of usage. Incase of the arrangement of the mechanisms for changing opticalproperties onto a wheel, different wheels may be provided. For example,a wheel carrying macro and close-up lenses of different imaging ratios,or a wheel carrying far-distance or telephoto lenses of differentmagnifications. The number of assemblies and the arrangement ofdifferent means for changing optical properties is not limited.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties of the lenssystem of the camera system of the mobile terminal device may be atleast one lens. Lenses set in front of a lens module of a camera systemenable changing of optical properties of the lens module, like focuslength, field of view, magnification or minimal imaging distance. Themanufacturing of the lenses may be based on different lens materials.Common materials are polymers or different glass substrates but thematerials for the lenses is not limited to the commonly used ones.

Conveniently, at least one lens may be a macro lens. Usually, the termmacro describes an approximately 1:1 (object size to image size)reproduction of an object by an camera system on an imaging plane.Correspondingly, the magnification of the imaged object is 1 or higher.

Additionally, lenses providing a magnification of the imaged objecthigher than approximately 2 are termed as close-up lenses which meansthat the object size to image size of the object is 1:2 or smaller. Sucha lens may also be provided as a means for changing optical propertiesof the lens module of the camera system.

Moreover, at least one lens may be a far-distance lens providing topossibility to image objects at a far distance.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprise awide converter or more extremely a fisheye lens.

Further preferably, at least one lens may be an electrically activatedlens. For example, electrical lenses may provide the possibility tomodify their focal length by applying different voltages. Themodification of the optical properties of lenses may be preferable sincemechanical comparable solutions involving several lenses show manydisadvantages like intricate mechanics of a relative high weight.

All the aforementioned means for changing optical properties may bedesigned of single lenses but may be also designed of several lenseswherein an adapted combination of lenses provides respective opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an objective usually built-up of several lenses. Theobjective may be a zoom objective providing a selective range of thefield of view. Usually, a field of view may be selected out of theprovided range of the field of view by a user operation actuatedmanually of electrically, for example by a motorized adjustment of thefield of view.

Moreover, the objective may be a telephoto objective comprising severallenses and providing telephoto photography. The telephoto objective maybe designed as a zoom telephoto objective providing telephotography atdifferent magnifications.

Additionally, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an auto-focusing objective usually built-up of severallenses. Objectives comprising several lenses to provide the desiredoptical properties require often a focusing of the imaged object ontothe image plane. The focusing may be motorized actuated or actuated bycomparable controllable means. The automatic actuation of the focusingof objective comprising several lenses may be a preferred solution.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprisefilters. The employment of filters is well known in photography.Different filters may improve pictures taken by camera systems. Forexample, a skylight filter reduces the part of blue color from the skyon bright days and reduces ultraviolet (UV) light or polarizationfilters may enable reduction of reflection and produce brighter colors.Also colored filters may improve pictures taken by camera systems ofproduce special effects.

Preferably, the camera system is built in the mobile terminal device.The mobile terminal device and the camera system comprising the lensmodule are enclosed by the same housing. The mechanism for changingoptical properties of the camera system may be integrated in the housingof the mobile terminal device comprising the camera system. The part ofa housing may be a part of the housing of the mobile terminal deviceincluding the camera system.

Additionally, the camera system comprising the lens module may be aseparate external module which may be plugged to the mobile terminaldevice for operation of the camera system. The camera system is enclosedby its own housing. The mechanism for changing optical properties of thecamera system may be integrated into the housing of the external modulecomprising the camera system. The part of a housing may be a part of thehousing of the external module including the camera system.

Conveniently, the mobile terminal device may be a mobile phone accordingto the known standards of mobile communication, such as global systemfor mobile communication (GSM), universal mobile telecommunicationservices (UMTS), digital communication system (DCS), wideband codedivision multiple access (WCDMA), IS-136 (mainly US wirelesscommunication standard), IS-95 (mainly US wireless communicationstandard) or the like.

According to third aspect of the invention, the mechanism for changingoptical properties are provided. The mechanisms for changing opticalproperties are adapted to cooperate with a lens module of a camerasystem. A mobile terminal device comprises the camera system. The lensmodule operates as a standard imaging optics of the camera system.Preferably, the camera system may be a digital camera system comprisinga CCD chip for detecting the images. The lens module focuses the imageson the CCD chip. Typically, the lens module may be a fixed focusobjective permanently integrated in the camera system which is comprisedby the mobile terminal device. Conveniently, fixed focus objectives havea limited distance range for focusing images, that is from a minimaldistance up to infinity, for example from 50 cm to infinity. Moreover,further properties like horizontal and vertical field of view (HFOV orVFOV, respectively) underlie the same restrictions. The mechanism forchanging optical properties of the lens module may enable modifying thelimited properties of the lens module, for example to shorter minimaldistance or varying field of view.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may beconnected detachably to mobile terminal device or camera system,respectively. A detachable connection may allow employment of differentmechanisms for changing optical properties according to the currentrequirements for taking images. This detachable connection may be aspecial snap-in connection which receives and supports the mechanism forchanging optical properties in an appropriate way. The snap-inconnection may provide additional connections, particularly anelectrical connection to the electronics of the camera system. Theelectrical connection may comprise signal connection for controllingsignals and also power supply connection.

Conveniently, a part of a housing enclosing the camera system maycomprise the mechanisms for changing optical properties. A part of ahousing may be a front cover or a back cover. Moreover, a part of thehousing may also be a part of the front cover or a part of the backcover. The mechanism for changing optical properties may be fixed to thepart of the housing but also detachably connected to the part of thehousing. The part of the housing may additionally comprise connections,particularly an electrical connection to the electronics of the camerasystem. The electrical connection may comprise signal connection forcontrolling signals and also power supply connection.

Additionally, the part of a housing comprising the mechanism forchanging optical properties may be detachably connected. An exchange ofdifferent mechanism for changing optical properties may be performed byexchanging the part of the housing comprising the respective means forchanging optical properties.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties of the lenssystem of the camera system of the mobile terminal device may be atleast one lens. Lenses set in front of a lens module of a camera systemenable changing of optical properties of the lens module, like focallength, field of view, magnification or minimal imaging distance. Themanufacturing of the lenses may be based on different lens materials.Common materials are polymers or different glass substrates but thematerials for the lenses is not limited to the commonly used ones.

Conveniently, at least one lens may be a macro lens. Usually, the termmacro describes an approximately 1:1 (object size to image size)reproduction of an object by an camera system on an imaging plane.Correspondingly, the magnification of the imaged object is 1 or higher.

Additionally, lenses providing a magnification of the imaged objecthigher than approximately 2 are termed as close-up lenses which meansthat the object size to image size of the object is 1:2 or smaller. Sucha lens may also be provided as a mechanism for changing opticalproperties of the lens module of the camera system.

Moreover, at least one lens may be a far-distance lens providing topossibility to image objects at a far distance.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprise awide converter or more extremely a fisheye lens.

Further preferably, at least one lens may be an electrically activatedlens. For example, electrical lenses may provide the possibility tomodify their focal length by applying different voltages. Themodification of the optical properties of lenses may be preferable sincemechanical comparable solutions involving several lenses show manydisadvantages like intricate mechanics of a relative high weight.

All the aforementioned mechanisms for changing optical properties may bedesigned of single lenses but may be also designed of several lenseswherein an adapted combination of lenses provides respective opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an objective usually built-up of several lenses. Theobjective may be a zoom objective providing a selective range of thefield of view. Usually, field of view may be selected out of theprovided range of the field of view by a user operation actuatedmanually of electrically, for example by a motorized adjustment of thefield of view.

Moreover, the objective may be a telephoto objective comprising severallenses and providing telephoto photography. The telephoto objective maybe designed as a zoom telephoto objective providing telephotography atdifferent magnifications.

Additionally, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an auto-focusing objective usually built-up of severallenses. Objectives comprising several lenses to provide the desiredoptical properties require often a focusing of the imaged object ontothe image plane. The focusing may be motorized actuated or actuated bycomparable controllable means. The automatic actuation of the focusingof objective comprising several lenses may be a preferred solution.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprisefilters. The employment of filters is well known in photography.Different filters may improve pictures taken by camera systems. Forexample, a skylight filter reduces blue color from the sky on brightdays and reduces ultraviolet (UV) light or polarization filters mayenable reduction of reflection and produce brighter colors. Also coloredfilters may improve pictures taken by camera systems of produce specialeffects.

Preferably, the camera system is built in the mobile terminal device.The mobile terminal device and the camera system comprising the lensmodule are enclosed by the same housing. The mechanism for changingoptical properties of the camera system may be integrated in the housingof the mobile terminal device comprising the camera system. The part ofa housing may be a part of the housing of the mobile terminal deviceincluding the camera system.

Additionally, the camera system comprising the lens module may be aseparate external module which may be plugged to the mobile terminaldevice for operation of the camera system. The camera system is enclosedby its own housing. The mechanism for changing optical properties of thecamera system may be integrated into the housing of the external modulecomprising the camera system. The part of a housing may be a part of thehousing of the external module including the camera system.

Conveniently, the mobile terminal device may be a mobile phone accordingto known standards of mobile communication, such as the global systemfor mobile communication (GSM), universal mobile telecommunicationservices (UMTS), digital communication system (DCS), wideband codedivision multiple access (WCDMA), IS-136 (mainly US wirelesscommunication standard), IS-95 (mainly US wireless communicationstandard) or the like.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method for changingoptical properties of a lens module of a camera system is provided. Themechanism for changing optical properties are placed in front of thelens module of the camera system within the optical trace. A mobileterminal device comprises the camera system. The lens module operates asa standard imaging optics of the camera system. Preferably, the camerasystem may be a digital camera system comprising a CCD chip fordetecting the images. The lens module focuses the images on the CCDchip. Typically, the lens module may be a fixed focus objectivepermanently integrated in the camera system which is comprised by themobile terminal device. Conveniently, fixed focus objectives have alimited distance range for focusing images, that is from a minimaldistance up to infinity, for example from 50 cm to infinity. Moreover,further properties like horizontal and vertical field of view (HFOV orVFOV, respectively) underlie the same restrictions. The mechanism forchanging optical properties of the lens module may enable modificationof the limited properties of the lens module, for example to shorterminimal distance or varying field of view. Therefore, the mechanism forchanging the optical properties are adapted to cooperate with the lensmodule. By placing the mechanisms for changing optical properties infront of the lens module the optical properties are modified in adesired way enabling extending and enhancing the imaging of the camerasystem.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may beconnected detachably to mobile terminal device or camera system,respectively. A detachable connection may allow employing differentmechanisms for changing optical properties according to the currentrequirements for taking pictures. This detachable connection may be aspecial snap-in connection which receives and supports the means forchanging optical properties in an appropriate way. The snap-inconnection may provide additional connections, particularly anelectrical connection to the electronics of the camera system. Theelectrical connection may comprise signal connection for controllingsignals and also a power supply connection.

Conveniently, a part of a housing enclosing the camera system maycomprise the mechanism for changing optical properties. A part of ahousing may be a front cover or a back cover. Moreover, a part of thehousing may also be a part of the front cover or a part of the backcover. The mechanism for changing optical properties may be connecteddetachably to the part of the housing. The part of the housing mayadditionally comprise connections, particularly an electrical connectionto the electronics of the camera system. The electrical connection maycomprise a signal connection for controlling signals and also a powersupply connection.

Additionally, the part of a housing may integrate the mechanism forchanging optical properties. Conveniently, an electrical connection mayalso be integrated providing connection to the electronics of the camerasystem.

Preferably, the part of a housing comprising the mechanism for changingoptical properties may be detachably connected. An exchange of differentmechanism for changing optical properties may be performed by exchangingthe part of the housing comprising the respective mechanisms forchanging optical properties.

Preferably, the part of a housing comprises not only a mechanism forchanging optical properties but also an assembly of a plurality ofmechanisms for changing optical properties of different characteristics.The assembly comprised by the part of the housing may be changed uponactuation in order to enable the co-operating of the differentmechanisms for changing optical properties with the lens module of thecamera system. The assembly may also comprise additional elements like asimple protecting cover for the lens module or a simple plane of glassprotecting the lens module during without modifying its opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the actuation of the assembly may be a manual actuation ora motorized actuation or any other electrically controlled actuation. Inorder to control electrically the mechanism for changing opticalproperties, additional electrical connections may be provided whichconnect the electronics of the camera system to the means for changingoptical properties. Moreover, the electrical connections may comprise apower supply connection for motorized functions of the means forchanging optical properties.

Additionally, the actuation may be a sliding actuation. The assembly ofmechanisms for changing optical properties may be arranged straight in arow. The different mechanisms for changing optical properties may besuitably arranged with the camera system and the lens module thereof bysliding the whole assembly along a corresponding supporting guide.

Further, the actuation may be a rotating actuation with the assemblyarranged on a wheel. Correspondingly, the different mechanisms forchanging optical properties may be suitably arranged with the camerasystem and the lens module thereof by rotating the wheel around an axisof the wheel.

Further, it may be advantageous to connect detachably the assembly ofthe plurality of mechanisms for changing optical properties. A fast andeasy exchange of the assembly may increase the possibility of usage. Incase of the arrangement of the mechanisms for changing opticalproperties onto a wheel, different wheels may be provided. For example,a wheel carrying macro and close-up lenses of different imaging ratios,or a wheel carrying far-distance or telephoto lenses of differentmagnifications may be used. The number of assemblies and the arrangementof different mechanism for changing optical properties is not limited.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties of the lenssystem of the camera system of the mobile terminal device may be atleast one lens. Lenses set in front of a lens module of a camera systemenable changing of optical properties of the lens module, like focallength, field of view, magnification or minimal imaging distance. Themanufacturing of the lenses may be based on different lens materials.Common materials are polymers or different glass substrates but thematerials for the lenses is not limited to the commonly used ones.

Conveniently, at least one lens may be a macro lens. Usually, the termmacro describes an approximately 1:1 (object size to image size)reproduction of an object by an camera system on an imaging plane.Correspondingly, the magnification of the imaged object is 1 or higher.

Additionally, lenses providing a magnification of the imaged objecthigher than approximately 2 are termed as close-up lenses which meansthat the object size to image size of the object is 1:2 or smaller. Sucha lens may also be provided as a mechanism for changing opticalproperties of the lens module of the camera system.

Moreover, at least one lens may be a far-distance lens providing thepossibility to image objects at a far distance.

Preferably, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprise awide converter or more extremely a fisheye lens.

Further preferably, at least one lens may be an electrical lens. Forexample, electrical lenses may provide the possibility to modify theirfocus length by applying different voltages. The modification of theoptical properties of lenses may be preferable since mechanicalcomparable solutions involving several lenses show many disadvantageslike intricate mechanics of a relative high weight.

All the aforementioned mechanisms for changing optical properties may bedesigned of single lenses but may be also designed of several lenseswherein an adapted combination of lenses provides respective opticalproperties.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an objective usually built-up of several lenses. Theobjective may be a zoom objective providing a selective range of thefield of view. Usually, a field of view may be selected out of theprovided range of the field of view by a user operation actuatedmanually of electrically, for example by a motorized adjustment of thefield of view.

Moreover, the objective may be a telephoto objective comprising severallenses and providing telephoto photography. The telephoto objective maybe designed as a zoom telephoto objective providing telephotography atdifferent magnifications.

Additionally, the mechanism for changing optical properties may includethe usage of an auto-focusing objective usually built-up of severallenses. Objectives comprising several lenses to provide the desiredoptical properties require often a focusing of the imaged object ontothe image plane. The focusing may be motorized actuated or actuated bycomparable controllable means. The automatic actuation of the focusingof objective comprising several lenses may be a preferred solution.

Conveniently, the mechanism for changing optical properties may comprisefilters. The employment of filters is well known in photography.Different filters may improve pictures taken by camera systems. Forexample, a skylight filter reduces blue color from the sky on brightdays and reduces ultraviolet (UV) light or polarization filters mayenable reducing reflection and produce brighter colors. Also coloredfilters may improve pictures taken by camera systems of produce specialeffects.

Preferably, the camera system is built in the mobile terminal device.The mobile terminal device and the camera system comprising the lensmodule are enclosed by the same housing. The mechanism for changingoptical properties of the camera system may be integrated in the housingof the mobile terminal device comprising the camera system. The part ofa housing may be a part of the housing of the mobile terminal deviceincluding the camera system.

Additionally, the camera system comprising the lens module may be aseparate external module which may be plugged to the mobile terminaldevice for operation of the camera system. The camera system is enclosedby its own housing. The mechanism for changing optical properties of thecamera system may be integrated in the housing of the external modulecomprising the camera system. The part of a housing may be a part of thehousing of the external module including the camera system.

Conveniently, the mobile terminal device may be a mobile phone accordingto the known standards of mobile communication, such as global systemfor mobile communication (GSM), universal mobile telecommunicationservices (UMTS), digital communication system (DCS), wideband codedivision multiple access (WCDMA), IS-136 (mainly US wirelesscommunication standard), IS-95 (mainly US wireless communicationstandard) or the like.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a system for changingoptical properties of a lens module of a camera system is provided. Thesystem comprises a mobile terminal module which comprises the camerasystem and a mechanism for changing optical properties which are adaptedto cooperate with the lens module of the camera system. The lens moduleoperates as a standard imaging optics of the camera system. Preferably,the camera system may be a digital camera system comprising a CCD chipfor detecting the images. The lens module focuses the images on the CCDchip. Typically, the lens module may be a fixed focus objectivepermanently integrated in the camera system which is comprised by themobile terminal device. Conveniently, fixed focus objectives have alimited distance range for focusing images, that is from a minimaldistance up to infinity, for example from 50 cm to infinity. Moreover,further properties like horizontal and vertical field of view (HFOV orVFOV, respectively) underlie the same restrictions. The mechanism forchanging optical properties of the lens module may enable modificationof the limited properties of the lens module, for example to shorterminimal distance or varying field of view. Therefore, the mechanism forchanging the optical properties are adapted to cooperate with the lensmodule. By placing the mechanism for changing optical properties infront of the lens module, the optical properties are modified in adesired way enabling to extend and enhance the imaging of the camerasystem.

The mobile terminal device is a mobile terminal device according to theaforementioned aspect of a mobile terminal device with respect to anembodiment of this invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constituted apart of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of theinvention and, together with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows an arrangement of an integrated digital camera module andan optical assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 a shows a mobile phone equipped with a camera module according toa further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 b shows a mobile phone with an integrated camera module withrespect to a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 c shows a side view of a mobile phone with an integrated cameramodule according to FIG. 2 b;

FIG. 2 d shows a side view of a mobile phone with an integrated cameramodule with respect to a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 a shows a side view of a cover with integrated detachablyconnected lens according to a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 b shows a back view of a cover with an integrated detachablyconnected lens according to FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 4 a shows a side view of a cover with an integrated slidingarrangement of several lenses with respect to a further embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 4 b shows a back view of a cover with integrated slidingarrangement of several lenses with respect to FIG. 4 a;

FIG. 5 a shows a side view of a cover with an integrated revolvingarrangement of several lenses according to a further embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 5 b shows a back view of a cover with an integrated revolvingarrangement of several lenses according to FIG. 5 a;

FIG. 6 a shows a side view of a cover with an integrated advanced opticswith respect to a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 b shows a back view of a cover with an integrated advanced opticswith respect to FIG. 6 a; and

FIG. 7 shows a mobile phone comprising a camera module and differentdetachably connected cover parts according to a further embodiment ofthe invention.

In the figures corresponding reference numerals denote correspondingfeatures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A mobile terminal device, such as a mobile phone, integrates a digitalcamera system which is built up of a detector system, commonly a CCDchip and a camera system, commonly an arrangement of lenses. The usageof a CCD chip for imaging may involve additionally an infrared (IR)filter to avoid damaging of the CCD chip. For the ability to takepictures in a visible region an IR filter is needed, otherwise the IRlight will saturate the sensor. This set-up enables taking of pictures.Moreover, an arrangement of a CCD chip and lens module enables designingsmall sized camera modules of low weight.

In certain embodiments, an optical properties changing unit may comprisea lens, objective comprising several lenses, at least one filter, adiffractive optical element, and combinations thereof. FIG. 1 shows anarrangement of an integrated digital camera module and an opticalassembly according to an embodiment of the invention. The camera module20 may be arranged directly on a printed wired board 13 and connected tothe mobile terminal device (not shown). The camera module including thelens module for imaging and an IR filter may be designed small enough inorder to be mounted as a camera unit 20 coupled to the printed wiredboard 13. According to various embodiments disclosed herein, an opticalproperties changing unit may comprise element 10, shown in FIG. 1.

An arrangement of lens 10 for changing optical properties, glass cover12 or hard coated plastic cover and hard cover 11 is placed in front ofthe opening of the lens module of the camera unit 20. The lens 10 isadapted to the optic properties of the camera unit 20 to act, forexample, as a close-up lens, a macro lens, a far-distance lens or thelike. If the original optical design of the lens module of the cameraunit 20 are known, lenses for changing optical properties of the lensmodule can be easily designed for and adapted to the camera system.

The lens 10, glass cover 12 and hard cover 11 may be arranged as anassembly which may be actuated along an axis indicated by arrow 14. Amovement of the assembly enables arrangement of the different elementsof the assembly in front of the opening of the camera unit 20. The glasscover 12 is used for taking pictures with unmodified imaging properties,that is according to the optical imaging properties of the lens moduleincluded in the camera unit 20. The hard cover 11 may be used to protectthe lens module of the camera unit 20 if the camera unit 20 is not used.Especially low cost and low weight polymer lenses are highly sensitiveto scratches. A glass cover 12 and a hard cover 11 may be a preferredmethod to protect the outer surface of the lens module.

In case of placing lens 10 in front of the camera unit 20, the opticalimaging properties are changed according to the respective design of thelens 10. A plurality of lenses or assembly of several lenses may beadapted to the camera unit 20. Lenses may be designed for enabling macroimaging, close-up imaging, far-distance imaging. Of course not onlysingle lenses, like shown in FIG. 1, may be combined with a camera unit20. Also zoom objectives or auto-focus objectives may be adapted to thelens of camera unit 20 and provide extended changing of opticalproperties of the camera 20. It is also possible to include additionalpower and control lines which provide power and control signals to thelenses or objectives. Control signals may be advantageous for auto-focusand/or zoom objectives since the actuations of such objectives may beautomatically operated, for example using a motorised actuation.

The advantage of auxillary lenses employed in combination with astandard camera unit 20 may be presented in the following table. Thetable shows object dimensions which may be imaged by auxiliary lenses ofadapted focus length. The presented values are based on thespecifications of a standard lens module with fixed focus in the rangefrom 50 cm to infinity, a CCD chip resolution of 800.times.600 pixels(VGA: video graphic adapter) and a horizontal field of view (HFOV) of55.degree. A certain close-up length which focal length is adapted toeach imaging distance may be used for the imaging of the respectiveobject.

Distance [mm] Width [mm] Height [mm] 1000 1041 780 500 521 390 150 156117 20 52 39

Therefore, a postcard can be photographed at a distance of approximately150 mm which means that a close-up lens with a focal length of 150 mm issuitable to take a picture of a postcard.

Preferably, the assembly of lens 10, and covers 11 and 12 may beintegrated in the overall housing (not shown) of the camera module 20. Asuitable guide, in this case a supporting guide, mounted to the housingwould enable the a movement of the assembly according to the axis 14.

The optical quality of the arrangement of camera unit 20 and lens 10 hasto be preserved in order to provide an adequate quality of the picturestaken with the additional lens. As an example, the modulation transferfunction (MTF), distortion and relative illumination of a standard lensmodule and an adapted 150 mm close-up lens may be presented. Thestandard lens module is designed for imaging on a CCD chip providing aVGA (video graphic adapter) resolution of 800.times.600 pixels. Further,the standard lens module is based on a fixed focus optics with a sharpfocus in the range of 50 cm to infinity.

Close-up Lens Standard (de-centre Lens Module Close-up Lens 0.5 tilt)FOV 0° 13° 27° 0° 13° 27° 0° 13° 27° 25 86% 82% 79% 88% 84% 81% 87% 83%80% lp/mm 50 65% 54% 52% 68% 58% 52% 68% 57% 51% lp/mm dis- 1.2% 1.8%1.8% tortion relative  57%  54%  54% illum- ination

The modulation transfer function is analyzed in view of two values: 25line pairs per millimetre (lp/mm) and 50 line pairs per millimetre(lp/mm). Further, three different values of the field of view (FOV) areexamined. Comparing the performance of the standard lens module and thecombination of standard lens module and close-up lens for imaging, thevalues obtained for the modulation transfer function (MTF) aresubstantially equal, minimal differences may be observed for the 25lp/mm values. The distortion and the relative illumination of theanalyzed combination of standard lens module and close-up lens areslightly worse, but the values are still within acceptable limits andcan be reduced to the additional lens.

Conveniently, the values of a close up lens which is de-centred by 0.5mm along the movement direction of the assembly of lens 10, and covers11 and 12 (x-axis) are of more interest. Additionally, the lens may betilted of about 3.degree. along the y-axis. In comparison with theobtained values of the combination standard lens module and close-uplens, the obtained values are practical the same within narrow limits.

The above presented tolerance analysis demonstrates that it is possibleto design optical lenses to change optical properties of an lens moduleof a camera unit. Mechanical tolerances which have to be taken intoconsideration due to the mechanical support of the additional lensesplaced in front of the lens module do not interfere with the quality ofthe pictures taken with the camera unit in combination with theadditional lens. The design of suitable supports of the additionallenses, such as lens 10, is possible even in case of mounting thesupport of the lens to the housing which encloses the camera unit.

Camera modules may be built into a mobile phone or plugged to a mobilephone in kind of an extension module. In both cases the camera modulehas to be of small size and low weight according to the design of mobileterminal devices of state of the art and according to the marketacceptance. Therefore, lens camera systems known from digital camerasmay only be suitable in limited implementations. Especially, lens camerasystems providing multiple optical imaging properties may be beyond thescope of the cost, size and weight specifications for usual utilization.

The following figures show possible embodiments of mobile phonesequipped with camera units or modules according to the invention.

FIG. 2 a shows a mobile phone equipped with a camera module according toa further embodiment of the invention. A camera module 41 according tothe invention may be provided as an external module which can be pluggedto a mobile phone 1. The camera unit 21 including a lens module forstandard imaging is permanently integrated into the camera module. Thehousing of the camera module 41 may comprise additional lenses, lensmodules, filters or other mechanisms for changing optical properties ofthe built-in lens module of the camera unit.

FIG. 2 b shows a mobile phone with an integrated camera module withrespect to a further embodiment of the invention. A camera module 42according to the invention may be provided as an internal module whichcan be plugged to a mobile phone 2. The camera unit 22 including a lensmodule for standard imaging is permanently integrated into the cameramodule. The housing of the camera module 42 may comprise additionallenses, lens modules, filters or other mechanisms for changing opticalproperties of the built-in lens module of the camera unit. The housingof camera module 42 may be also the housing of the mobile phone 2.Further, the housing of mobile phone 2 may be split into differentparts, so that in case of replacing the additional mechanisms forchanging optical properties of the camera unit 22 only the specificcamera unit 22 enclosing part of the housing of the mobile phone mayhave to be replaced.

This kind of implementation of the camera unit may be advantageous forvideo telephony.

FIG. 2 c shows a side view of a mobile phone integrating a camera moduleaccording to FIG. 2 b. The housing of the mobile phone may consist oftwo parts, a front cover 30 and a back cover 31. The camera unit 20 isintegrated in the mobile phone such that the front cover presents anoptical pass through. Auxiliary lenses, filters or the like may bedetachably connected to the front cover 30 which is shows by an opticalmechanism 10. Moreover, the front cover 30 may be detachably connectedto the back cover 31 of the mobile phone as to replace the whole frontcover providing the possibility to permanently mount lenses, filters orother mechanisms to the front cover 30.

FIG. 2 d shows a side view of a mobile phone with an integrated cameramodule with respect to a further embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment the camera unit 20 is integrated in the mobile phone suchthat the back cover 33 presents an optical pass through for the cameraunit 20. The housing of the mobile phone consists of two parts, thefront cover 32 and the back cover 33. Optical means 10 are attached tothe back cover 33 of the mobile phone according to the integration ofthe camera unit 20.

In summary, the presented embodiments of mobile phones combined withcamera modules integrated or as external modules illustrates the basicaspect of the invention. A standard camera module is provided for themobile phone which enables taking pictures using the camera unitcomprising a standard optical lens module. The optical lens moduleprovides a standard imaging. Further enhanced imaging involves the usageof additional optical means like auxiliary lenses, filters and the like.These optical mechanisms are attached to the housing of the cameramodule. In case of an external camera module, the module is enclosed byits own housing, in case of an integrated camera module, the housingencloses both the mobile phone and the integrated camera module. Theoptical mechanisms may be exchanged according to the demand for takingimages. For example, the optical mechanism may be detachably connectedto the respective housing or the housing or parts of the housing may bedetachably connected. Moreover, several different optical mechanism maybe mounted on the housing and be exchanged by suitable manual orautomatic (motorized) actuation.

Different embodiments of covers comprising mechanisms for changingoptical properties of the camera unit 20 will be given in the followingfigures.

FIG. 3 a shows a side view of a cover with integrated detachablyconnected lens according to a further embodiment of the invention andFIG. 3 b shows a back view of a cover with integrated detachablyconnected lens according to FIG. 3 a. The part of the housing shown inFIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b may be a part of the cover of a mobile phone, forexample, the back cover or the front cover. The position of the cameraunit comprising a lens module shall be indicated by element 20. Theoptical means 70 may be detachably connected to the cover 34. Hence, theoptical mechanism may be easily exchanged by a user. Different fittingoptical mechanisms 70 may be provided to the user to be connected to thecover 34 and adapted a the camera unit 20. A special connectingmechanism may be integrated in the cover 34 to enable theexchangeability of the optical mechanism 70. Certain snap-in elementsprovide the detachably connection to the cover 34 and ensure the correctplacement. Further, the snap-in elements may ensure that only fittingand adapted optical mechanisms 70 may be connected to the cover 34.

Advanced optical elements which may be connected to the cover 34 mayrequire electrical connections. These connections may be also providedby the snap-in elements or may be provided by an additional electricalconnection 71 providing electrical connection between optical mechanism70 and the electronics of the camera unit 20 indicated by referencenumeral 71.

FIG. 4 a shows a side view of a cover with integrated slidingarrangement of several lenses with respect to a further embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 4 b shows a back view of a cover with integratedsliding arrangement of several lenses with respect to FIG. 4 a. The partof the housing shown in FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4 b may be a part of the coverof a mobile phone, e.g. the back cover or the front cover. The positionof the camera unit comprising a lens module is indicated by element 20.Several optical mechanisms are arranged in an assembly 50. The assemblymay comprise optical mechanisms like macro lenses, close-up lenses,far-distance lenses, filters and the like. These mechanisms may beadapted to the lens module of camera unit 20. Furthermore, the assemblymay comprise a cover to protect the lens module of camera unit 20, forexample a glass cover to be used for standard imaging or a protectinglightproof cover. The assembly may be moved by a sliding actuation whichmay be a manual actuation but also an automatic actuation, e.g. amotorized sliding actuation. A suitable supporting guide may beintegrated into the cover 35 and enables the sliding actuation of theassembly 50 by further mechanisms (not shown). The desired opticalmechanisms 51, 52 or 53 may be placed in front of the lens module ofcamera unit 20 and changes the optical properties accordingly.

Additionally, the cover 35 integrating the assembly 50 may be detachablyconnected, such that a cover 34 which is shown in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b maybe exchanged by a more comfortable cover 35.

FIG. 5 a shows a side view of a cover with an integrated revolvingarrangement of several lenses according to a further embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 5 b shows a back view of a cover with integratedrevolving arrangement of several lenses according to FIG. 5 a. The partof the housing shown in FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4 b may be a part of the coverof a mobile phone, phone example, the back cover or the front cover. Theposition of the camera unit comprising a lens module is indicated byelement 20. Several optical mechanisms are arranged in an assembly 60.The assembly may comprise optics like macro lenses, close-up lenses,far-distance lenses, filters and the like. These optics may be adaptedto the lens module of camera unit 20. Furthermore, the assembly maycomprise also a cover to protect the lens module of camera unit 20. Theoptics may be integrated into a rotating wheel. The assembly may bemoved by a revolving actuation which may be a manual actuation but alsoan automatic actuation, for example, a motorized sliding actuation. Asuitable supporting guide may be integrated into the cover 36 andenables the revolving actuation of the assembly 60 by further mechanisms(not shown). The desired optics A, B, C, D or E of the assembly 60 maybe placed in front of the lens module of camera unit 20 and change theoptical properties accordingly.

Additionally, the cover 36 integrating the assembly 60 may be detachablyconnected, such that a cover 34 which is shown in FIGS. 5 a and 5 b maybe exchanged by a more comfortable cover 36.

FIG. 6 a shows a side view of a cover with integrated advanced opticswith respect to a further embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 b shows aback view of a cover with integrated advanced optics with respect toFIG. 6 a. The part of the housing shown in FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4 b may bea part of the cover of a mobile phone, for example, the back cover orthe front cover. The position of the camera unit comprising a lensmodule shall be indicated by element 20. Advanced optics 80 may bemounted on the cover 37. The advanced optics may be a zoom optics, anauto-focus optics or the like. The advanced optics may be actuatedmanually or automatically (motorized). Therefore, it may be advantageousto provide electrical connections 81 for actuation and controlling ofthe advanced optics 80. The electrical connection 81 connects theadvanced optics 80 to the electronics of the camera unit 20 or to theelectronics of the mobile device (not shown). The camera unit 20 or themobile device may provide controlling signals and power to the advancedoptics, for example to focus on objects to be photographed.Particularly, in case of small objectives a motorized actuation of theobjective functions like focus or zoom may be advantageous since manualactuation of small objective may be difficult due to small actuationdevice.

Preferably, the advanced optics may be mounted permanently to the cover37 or may be detachably connected by a snap-in connector to the cover 37like aforementioned in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b.

Additionally, the cover 37 integrating the advanced optics 80 may bedetachably connected, such that a cover 34 which is shown in FIGS. 3 aand 3 b may be exchanged by a more comfortable cover 37 in case of apermanent mounting of the advanced optics.

FIG. 7 shows a mobile phone comprising a camera module and differentdetachably connected cover parts according to a further embodiment ofthe invention. The mobile phone 2 includes a camera module 42. Thecamera unit and the lens module for taking standard pictures accordingto the optical properties of the lens module may be indicated byreference numeral 22. The part of housing of the mobile phone 2 coveringthe camera module 42 may be detachably connected to the remaining partof housing of the mobile phone 2. Different suitable cover parts may beprovided to be connected to the respective mobile phone 2. The standardcover part may be exchanged against one of the cover parts 38.1, 38.2 or38.3. The following described cover parts and the optical mechanismcomprised by the cover parts may be understood as exemplary and notlimiting. Further cover parts and optical mechanism for changing opticalproperties of the lens module of camera unit 22 such as aforementionedmay be provided additionally.

For example, the cover part 38.1 may comprise an advanced zoom objectivewhich is actuated by a motor drive. Therefore, an additional electricalconnection may be included in the cover part 38.1.

The cover part 38.2 may provide a snap-in element carrying a singlelens, for example, a macro lens, close-up lens or a far-distance lens.These lenses may be adapted to the lens module of the camera unit 22included in the camera module 42. Of course also other adapted optics,filters and other optics may be provided for the snap-in connector ofcover part 38.2. The snap-in element of 38.2 provides a detachablyconnection of the mounted optics so that the optics may be exchangedfast and easily. It may be advantageous to provide further snap-inconnectors for storing optics which are currently not in use. Such astorage may be provided on the back side of the mobile phone 2 but maybe also included in the cover part 38.2. Additionally, an electricalconnection for controlling signals and power supply, may be provided toconnect the snap-in element and the electronics of the camera unit 22 orcamera module 42 or the electronics of the mobile phone 2, respectively.

The cover part 38.3 may provide an assembly of optics adapted to thelens module for changing optical properties thereof. The assembly mayintegrate several optical elements and also a protective mechanism.Furthermore, the different optical mechanism may be placed in front ofthe lens module of the camera unit 20 by a sliding or a revolvingactuation. The actuation may be a manual actuation or an automaticallymotor driven actuation.

Each cover part 38.1, 38.2 and 38.3 may be used in combination with themobile phone including the camera module 42. According to the demandsand requirements each user may select one or several of these opticenhancing cover parts. The user may be also able to select an opticenhancing cover part with respect of its size and weight. Each user mayalso be able to purchase more than one single optic enhancing cover partand exchange the cover parts according to the current demands to thephotography situation. Detachably cover parts or the aforementionedsnap-in connector give the users a high number of variations of theoptical properties of the camera module whereas the a high number ofmobile phones integrate the same camera module which enables an overallcost efficiency of these mobile phones.

Although the present invention has been described in terms of thepresently preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that suchdisclosure is not be interpreted as limiting. Various alternations andmodifications will no doubt become apparent to those skilled in the artafter reading the above disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended that theappended claims be interpreted as covering all alternations andmodifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

1. A mobile terminal device comprising: an outer housing comprising atleast one telecommunications component and a camera system comprising afirst lens module which enables taking pictures with optical imagingproperties given by the lens module; and a cover portion configured tobe detachably connected to the outer housing at a first location to forman outer cover of the mobile terminal device, comprising: an opticalproperties changing unit comprising at least a second lens that isdifferent from the first lens module of the outer housing, such thatupon being detachably connected to the outer housing, the opticalproperties changing unit of the cover is configured to be orientatedwith the lens module of the camera system so as to enable takingpictures using the camera system with changed optical imagingproperties.
 2. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the opticalproperties changing unit comprises a second lens and a third lens. 3.The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the optical properties changingunit comprises an advanced zoom objective lens.
 4. The mobile terminalof claim 1, wherein the cover portion comprises a snap-in connectorconfigured to selectively attach the cover portion with the outerhousing at the first location.
 5. The mobile terminal of claim 4,wherein the cover portion is further configured to be detachablyconnected to the outer housing at a second location, wherein at thesecond location, the optical properties changing unit is not configuredto be oriented with the lens module of the camera system as to enabletaking pictures using the camera system.
 6. The mobile terminal of claim1, wherein the cover portion is further configured to be detachablyconnected to the outer housing at a second location, wherein at thesecond location, the optical properties changing unit is not configuredto be oriented with the lens module of the camera system as to enabletaking pictures using the camera system.
 7. The mobile terminal of claim2, wherein the optical properties changing unit comprises a plurality ofdifferent optical assemblies; wherein each optical assembly is adaptedto cooperate with the lens module of the camera system; and wherein oneof the plurality of different optical assemblies that cooperates withthe lens module is changeable upon actuation.
 8. The mobile terminal ofclaim 7, wherein the one of the plurality of different opticalassemblies that cooperates with the lens module is changeable upon aslidable actuation.
 9. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the coverportion is a first cover portion, the mobile terminal device furthercomprising: a second cover portion configured to be detachably connectedto the outer housing to form an outer cover of the mobile terminal,comprising: an optical properties changing unit comprising at least athird lens different from the first lens module of the outer housing andthe second lens of the first cover portion, such that upon beingdetachably connected to the outer housing, the optical propertieschanging unit of the second cover portion is orientated with the lensmodule of the camera system so as to enable taking pictures using thecamera system with changed optical imaging properties.
 10. The mobileterminal of claim 1, wherein the optical properties changing unitcomprises an element selected from the group consisting of: a filter, afixed lens, a zoom lens, and combinations thereof.
 11. An outer cover ofa mobile terminal device comprising: a connector configured toselectively attach the outer cover to a first location of an outerhousing of the mobile terminal device, wherein the mobile terminaldevice comprises at least one telecommunications component and a camerasystem, wherein without the outer cover, the camera system comprises afirst lens module which enables taking pictures with optical imagingproperties given by the lens module; and an optical properties changingunit comprising at least a second lens different from the first lensmodule of the outer housing, such that upon being detachably connectedto the first location outer housing, the optical properties changingunit of the outer cover is configured to be orientated with the lensmodule of the camera system so as to enable taking pictures using thecamera system with changed optical imaging properties.
 12. The outercover of claim 11, wherein the optical properties changing unitcomprises a second lens and a third lens.
 13. The outer cover of claim11, wherein the optical properties changing unit comprises an advancedzoom objective lens.
 14. The outer cover of claim 11, wherein theconnector comprises a snap-in connector.
 15. The outer cover of claim14, further configured to be detachably connected to the outer housingat a second location, wherein at the second location, the opticalproperties changing unit is not oriented with the lens module of thecamera system as to enable taking pictures using the camera system. 16.The outer cover of claim 11, wherein the connector of the outer cover isfurther configured to be detachably connected to the outer housing at asecond location, wherein at the second location, the optical propertieschanging unit is not oriented with the lens module of the camera systemas to enable taking pictures using the camera system.
 17. The outercover of claim 12, wherein the optical properties changing unitcomprises a plurality of different optical assemblies each being adaptedto cooperate with the lens module of the camera system, wherein one ofthe plurality of different optical assemblies that is adapted tocooperate with the lens module is changeable upon actuation.
 18. Theouter cover of claim 17, wherein the one of the plurality of differentoptical assemblies that cooperates with the lens module is changeableupon a slidable actuation.
 19. The outer cover of claim 11, wherein theoptical properties changing unit comprises an element selected from thegroup consisting of: a filter, a fixed lens, a zoom lens, andcombinations thereof.
 20. The outer cover of claim 11, wherein theoptical properties changing unit comprises at least a zoom lens and afixed lens.